Senator Bam Aquino has sponsored a measure aimed at improving access to education in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA), ensuring students in remote communities can reach school more safely and easily.
Under Senate Bill No. (SBN) 1937, the proposal seeks to institutionalize the government’s “Last Mile Schools” program to provide sustained support for schools in far-flung areas.
Aquino said many students still face dangerous journeys just to attend school, citing cases where children must cross rivers, damaged bridges, mountains, or walk for hours before reaching classrooms.
“Napakahirap pa rin ng buhay ng mga estudyante sa mga malalayong lugar. Mayroon pa ring mga estudyante na kailangang lumangoy sa ilog, tumawid sa sira-sirang tulay, at maglakad ng ilang oras bago makarating sa paaralan,” he said.
SBN 1937 proposes reforms including accessibility standards that aim to place schools within a three-kilometer walking distance, or provide safe and affordable transportation if geography makes that impossible.
It also calls for more classrooms, electricity, internet connectivity, and better support for teachers assigned to remote areas, including hazard pay, transport allowances, and housing assistance.IMT
